FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I use J. A. Blanton Consulting over other college and graduate consulting companies?
Large for-profit companies offer exorbitant fees that, frankly, approach predatory rates. Meanwhile, the college and grad school counselors at these companies, who perform 100% of the substantive work for their clients, are not full-time employees, but instead are contractors. They are paid shockingly low rates working in exploitative environments with disturbing labor practices.
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How can consultants provide the best advice to their clients if they are working in abusive and predatory job environments? Ones where they’re pressured to add as much profit to the company as possible? And if these companies are exploiting their labor, they are most certainly exploiting their clients.
I knew that if I wanted to pursue my passion for helping students and professionals, I would have to set up my own firm. At J. A. Blanton Consulting, LLC, I provide all the counseling myself - no exploited contractors at my disposal.
Why pay for college or graduate school consulting?
When a client invests a few hundred or thousand dollars in comprehensive college and graduate counseling packages, they may ultimately save tens or hundreds of thousands in tuition. Stronger application packages will also receive larger merit scholarships. I advise students on financial aid packages and how to negotiate for larger packages.
In addition, higher ranked colleges and graduate programs are correlated with greater lifetime earnings - a small investment now could pay dividends in the future.​
Where are you based? Are consulting services online?
I'm based in the New York City area. Consulting services will take place online via Zoom or other video platform. I can accommodate clients from all timezones.​
Why should I use your editing services over ChatGPT or another AI source?
Unlike AI, my goal is for clients to not only have stronger essays, but to develop a deeper understanding of how to write clearly and concisely. When I edit, I provide thorough explanations for my clients about how my proposed edits improve their writing. Strong writing skills will serve clients well no matter what academic and career path they pursue.
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Moreover, I am committed to forming personal connections with my clients. It is heart-warming to hear from clients years later about their academic and professional milestones. I hope to serve as a resource for you far into the future.
Have you worked with international students?
Yes, I've worked with several international clients. I am very familiar with the international student experience at American colleges and LLM programs at American law schools.
I particularly encourage international clients to reach out so that I can help to demystify the American college and university admissions experience.​
Are parents or guardians involved in the college counseling process?
Yes, I will work with each individual family to determine how often parents and guardians wish to be involved with the college counseling process.
Do you provide discounts for siblings or referrals?
Yes, siblings and those who provide referrals will receive discounts.